Choosing a DEFRA Approved Wood Burner
Many people searching for a new stove should look at a DEFRA-approved wood burning stove. These stoves can be installed within smoke-control zones, so long as only Defra-approved fuels are burned.
They are also usually modified by the manufacturer to limit the extent to which they are deprived of air which would create smoky combustion.
Clean Burn Technology
There are many different terms that get thrown around when it is about wood burning and multi fuel stoves. Some of the most important ones are clean burn DEFRA exempt and Ecodesign. These may seem like marketing buzzwords to the average person, but they are important to take into consideration when choosing a new stove.
A stove that is approved by Defra is one that can be used to control smoke in areas when the stove is using specific fuels. These include logs, briquettes, and steam coal with low volatile. Modern stove makers use a special combustion systems with secondary and third airflow to lower the amount of smoke produced by the stove. They produce less smoke as a result than older open fires or other stoves not Defra-approved.
This is part of the government’s efforts to ensure clean air in urban areas and it is working well. A Defra approved stove will deliver the minimum amount of combustion air, which results in minimal smoke, yet you receive a good amount of flames and heat from your log burner.
You can determine if you have a Defra-approved version of a stove by looking for the Defra-exempt terminology or a Defra badge in the product listing. If you’re not sure then you can always reach the manufacturer directly or visit an expert local retailer who will be able to assist with this.
Stove defra-exempt stoves can be more expensive than standard models, but it is important to keep in mind that they have been tested extensively to ensure they comply with strict emission standards. You’ll save money over the long term because your stove that is certified by Defra will use less logs to generate the same heat.
Ecodesign regulations were put into effect a year ago and all stoves manufactured following that date must be fully in compliance. If you reside in a smoke control area you’ll need a stove that is Ecodesign compliant as well as Defra-exempt (or a approved model Defra-approved that has passed the strict Defra emissions tests). Charnwood is one example. It has a selection of Defra exempt stoves that are also classified as clearSkies Level 3 which signifies they have reached the highest level of combustion that is clean and safe for use.
Low Emissions
Stove manufacturers like Arada & Stovax continue to improve their stoves by incorporating secondary and fireplacesandstove tertiary burning systems that decrease the amount released of particulates. The result is not just a beautiful stove however, it also emits very little smoke. This lets you use it in smoke-controlled areas without worrying about heavy fines.
A DEFRA approved wood stove or multi-fuel stove has been through the rigorous tests set by the UK Government Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs. These tests determine the maximum amount of smoke and emissions that a stove is allowed to emit.
These tests also consider the way a stove handles flames that smolder, this is when the combustible substance in the log burner continues to burn even after the flames have stopped. These types of fires release a huge amount of smoke when they are not completely snuffed out. DEFRA approved stoves utilize an additional combustion system to re-burn the particulates which result from the fire.
Many people live in smoke-control zones where it is illegal to use non-Defra approved stoves and log burners. You must use a DEFRA-approved stove to avoid a large fine. There are a range of different kinds of Defra approved stoves to purchase. Whether you need an incredibly small Defra approved wood burner for your inglenook fireplace or a larger freestanding stove that can be incorporated into the room, there’s certain to be a model that will suit your home.
There are many Defra-approved stoves that feature a contemporary style and contemporary design. They can be used within smoke-controlled zones. Typically, they have large glass doors that permit you to take in the warmth and fire from the comfort of your living room.
Some Defra approved stoves can be modified using an accessory supplied by the manufacturer to make them more DEFRA conforming. This kit prevents air vents on the top of the stove from being closed completely. This is known as “slumbering” and can cause unburned combustible material to be released into the air.
Energy Efficiency
A Defra exempted stove is constructed to emit very little smoke and provide high heat. This means they are ideal for use in smoke-free areas and can be used with smokeless or wood fuels. They are also more efficient and can burn logs with less smoke than stoves that are not Defra. In addition, they have an airwash system which keeps the glass window clear, making them a fashionable and efficient option for your home.
Stoves that are Defra approved are usually known as ‘SE’ or smoke exempt stoves that can be purchased from many specialist wood-burning stove stores. They can be used in smoke control zones as they feature advanced combustion systems that utilize secondary and tertiary combustion systems to reduce harmful emissions. They are also able to be fitted with smaller flue lines of 5 inches instead of the 6 inches that are required by the building regulations.
Another great feature of a DEFRA exempt stove is that they have an adjustment on the top air vent that stops it from being closed all the way. This is a common mistake that people make and it will stop the flow of oxygen to the fire and cause it to smoulder and produce lots of smoke. These stoves are equipped with an inbuilt limiter that ensures that a minimum amount of air is delivered to the fuel, so that it can’t be starved and produce excessive smoke.
Manufacturers of stoves have taken this idea to the next level by introducing Defra Plus stoves. These models have been updated to not only meet, but even exceed the standards required. Charnwood ST2 is the best example. It not only meets Defra requirements, but also has an A+ energy rating. It is also clearSkies Level 5 compatible. This is an amazing feat which proves that a DEFRA-exempt stove is highly Efficient 8KW Black Cast Iron Eco Wood Stove and environmentally friendly. The future is bright for eco-friendly appliances.
Perfect for Smoke Control Areas
Certain UK towns and cities have been designated as smoke control zones. If you are in a smoke-control area it is only possible to install the stove if it’s approved by DEFRA. This means that the stove is able to be used with wood as well as other authorised fuels without producing excessive levels of smoke. A Defra exempt stove will usually have an air vent that cannot be closed off completely and allows it to maintain a constant supply of oxygen. This allows the wood to burn more efficiently, and reduce emissions and soot.
Look for stoves that have been DEFRA-certified as ready to burn a variety of manufactured smokeless fuels such as anthracite and lignite granules. These fuels are specially designed to assist the stove in burning efficiently. They should be branded with a “Ready to burn” logo, which signifies that the fuel is in compliance with the minimum sulphur levels and smoke emissions.
You can enjoy a long time of low-cost heating while also protecting the environment and making your neighbours happy. But, you’ll need to maintain your fireplace and ensure it is in good working order by regularly cleaning the flue and chimney, performing regular inspections by an engineer and adhering to the instructions of the manufacturer for maintenance and use.
Stoves can be a focal point for any home and can add value and comfort. It is crucial to select the best stove for your home. There are many choices to pick from in terms of designs, materials, finishes and the output of heat. It is essential to select a DEFRA approved stove if you live in an area where smoking is restricted. Otherwise, you could be fined and violate the law. We have a large selection of affordable and high-quality DEFRA exempted stoves.